THE O’Brien’s Bridge Trail Head and Canoe Trail Project is to benefit from government funding of €200,000, it has been announced.

Minister Heather Humphreys announced the funding of 38 projects under Measure 2 of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.

The scheme provides funding for the development, promotion and maintenance of outdoor amenities such as trails, walkways, cycleways, and blueways.

Deputy Joe Carey welcomed the allocation saying, “This is fantastic news for the community of O’Brien’s Bridge. This funding will enable the local community to develop much needed amenities on the River Shannon which will be used by residents and visitors alike.”

The project will provide a series of four canoe trails together with a trail head at O’Brien’s Bridge. Visitors and users will be able to access O’Brien’s Bridge via a floating pontoon jetty.

 The Clarecastle-based TD paid tribute to the huge efforts made by local community leaders and residents who worked closely with Clare County Council to advance the project.

Deputy Carey added: “This will be a fantastic amenity for locals and visitors to O’Brien’s Bridge for many years to come.”